Home of the Blues

We are in Bull Shoals, AR
Then a couple of spots in Missouri on our way to Illinois

Another nickname for Memphis!

On this sunny day we took a drive over to Mud Island  - we saw it from the top of the Pyramid the previous day.  Such a pretty neighborhood!

We drove around for a bit and discovered alleys for each street.

Here's the front of those houses.

This part of the island was definitely upscale -

The park runs right along the Mississippi and provides a great view from the homes and a nice walk for us.

Here is a view of the DeSoto Bridge from the park.

The river is definitely high as many trees are sitting in water.

After our walk, the timing worked out so we could check out the historic Peabody Hotel.

Although the original hotel dates back to 1869, the current one was built in 1925 and is called the "South's Grand Hotel".

Of course the hotel is known for the 5 Mallard ducks that live on the roof but make their way to the lobby fountain each day known as the "March of the Ducks".

There are several plaques on the sidewalk outside of the hotel describing its history. This one describing alligators in the fountain as well as WWII soldiers sleeping in the lobby was interesting.

The fountain is in this beautiful lobby bar.  It reminds me of the Palmer House in Chicago that I spent so much time in during my working days.

The Duckmaster and the kids are ready!

Are the ducks?

There they go!  All the way to the elevator that will take them home for the night.

After all that excitement it was time for dinner.  Johnny had been to the Rendezvous 20 years ago, so we checked it out.

Ahhh.  Just like old times.

Lee was our waiter.

This is where the magic happens!  Love those "Memphis Style" dry rub ribs!

Lastly, we took our first run at Beale Street.

We followed the music.  "The Thrill is Gone" was playing in this outdoor venue.

There was a movie being filmed on Beale Street that night.  We think this building front was part of it.

A few historic sites:  W. C. Handy - Father of the Blues.

There were dozens of these memorials in the sidewalk honoring blues musicians.

We have had a "thing" with Johnny Cash and the numerous times we heard his music while on our RV adventure.  It was fun to see this guitar (part of an art installation like the Chicago cows) on Beale Street.

Can't wait to come back!